Synaptic pattern

A synaptic pattern or neural pattern is the unique configuration of neurons and synapses in the brain. Since memories, thought patterns, and aspects of personality are encoded in this pattern, it is often considered to represent a person's consciousness.

In the same year, analyzing synaptic patterns was used along with a DNA scan to determine that a double of William T. Riker left on Nervala IV8 years before, was created by a transporter accident and not through cloning, as the double, later called Thomas Riker, lacked genetic drift, with their synaptic patterns being nearly identical except for minor variations resulting in different memories from their divergent lives after this accidental separation. (TNG: "Second Chances")

In 2376, B'Elanna Torres re-created the conditions of an accident that had led her to experience a vision of the Barge of the Dead. However, eventually her neural patterns began to break down, threatening her life. (VOY: "Barge of the Dead")

Later in 2376, Seven of Nine's attempt to download information directly into her mind "threw [her] synaptic patterns into chaos", causing her to experience paranoia. (VOY: "The Voyager Conspiracy")